Isabel entered the cabin behind him, her nerves still tense. The interior was plain yet cozy, featuring spacious windows that looked out onto the dense forest outside. Alexander rushed to the windows to inspect the locks, as Isabel remained in the center of the room, attempting to make sense of the recent events.
"I have to place some phone calls," Alexander mentioned as he took his phone out of his pocket. I know someone who might have information on the hacker's whereabouts. If we reach him before Leland does, we may have a chance at changing the outcome.
Isabel gave a nod, even though her thoughts were still racing. "Can you rely on this connection?"
"Sure," Alexander responded. "He has assisted me in the past, so he understands how Leland works." He's the one who can guide us to the hacker.
When Alexander went outside to make his phone calls, Isabel sat down in a chair with her head in her hands. Everything seemed to be spiraling out of hand. Only a few weeks ago, her top worry was managing Marcus and safeguarding the foundation. At this point, she found herself entangled in a complex situation involving dishonesty, manipulation, and high-stakes maneuvers, all orchestrated by the ruthless Leland Chase.
Her phone vibrating in her pocket interrupted her train of thought. Isabel paused before retrieving it, anticipating a mysterious message from the unfamiliar number. However, as she looked at the display, her heart raced.
"Victor."
For a brief moment, she hesitated before responding to the call with her thumb poised over the screen.
Victor's voice, low and urgent, called out "Isabel." You are at risk. Even more awful than you realize.
"I am aware," Isabel responded, her voice trembling. "I am already aware of Leland."
There was a brief silence at the other end, and when Victor spoke again, his voice had turned grim. At that point, you realize time is running short. He will continue until he achieves his desired outcome. Believe me, Isabel, Leland's desires will ruin everything.
She felt her heart racing. Victor, what are you talking about? How did you acquire such extensive knowledge about him?
"Having been in your current position," Victor commented. I've witnessed Leland's capabilities, and they are more dreadful than you think. If you don't act fast and bring him down, he will target all the people you love. That also involves Alexander.
Isabel forced herself to swallow. While she didn't have full trust in Victor, he had always been truthful to her. His urgent tone caused a sudden shiver to run down her back.
"Then assist us," Isabel requested. "Assist us in identifying Leland's vulnerability."
There was a moment of silence from Victor. I am unable to. Not in a direct manner. However, I can guide you to the correct path. There is a person who knows Leland better than anyone else—someone who was once very close to him.
"Who is it?" Isabel made a demand.
"Victor responded that he would send the information." "Watch out, Isabel. This individual poses a threat. Similar to Leland.
The phone call ended abruptly, causing Isabel to grip the phone tightly, her heart beating fast. A different player. Another possible danger. This time, it was uncertain whether this individual was a friend or yet another adversary hidden in the darkness.
Upon receiving the message with the information, Isabel's thoughts were filled with queries. Before Leland made his next move, how much additional information could they discover? And how many additional lives would be jeopardized before the truth was ultimately revealed?
Isabel glanced out the window and saw Alexander walking back and forth, talking on his phone. She was unsure of whom to trust. However, it became evident that Leland's level of control was greater than they had realized, and they were running out of time to break free from it.
And a new individual was on the verge of joining the conflict.